Description
This Juicy Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce recipe brings the authentic Middle Eastern street food experience to your kitchen with tender, marinated chicken thighs cooked to perfection and served with a creamy, flavorful garlic sauce. Perfectly spiced and easy to make, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for bold, aromatic flavors and juicy, succulent chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Shawarma
- 1 pound Chicken Thighs or Breasts (Thighs keep moisture better)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with any neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin (Earthy depth, can substitute with coriander)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (Use smoked paprika for a rustic taste)
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric (Can substitute with curry powder)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander (Can use cumin as an alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Omit if not preferred)
- 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh is best)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Can substitute with lime juice)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust to taste)
For the Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 cloves Extra Minced Garlic (Adjust for desired garlicky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Add more for enhanced flavor)
Additional Garnishes
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Pickled turnips
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juicy inside, with a slight char on the outside. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, extra minced garlic, and lemon juice. Adjust garlic and lemon juice to taste for the perfect balance of tangy and garlicky flavor.
- Assemble the Shawarma: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Serve on warm flatbread or pita with garlic sauce and additional veggies such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickled turnips for freshness and crunch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with your preferred veggies and enjoy this juicy, flavorful chicken shawarma with the creamy garlic sauce that complements every bite.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for more juicy, tender meat; breasts work if preferred leaner.
- Adjust spices to taste, especially cinnamon, which can be omitted if undesired.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Marinate chicken for longer (up to 24 hours) for more intense flavor.
- Serve with warm pita or flatbread for the best traditional experience.
- You can add other garnishes like fresh herbs (parsley or mint) for extra freshness.
